Patty had not been a Christian long when she was dealt a blow that would have discouraged even a more mature Christian. "I feel like giving up," she said.

That night my husband and I prayed for her, asking God to keep her from defeat. She later told me what happened to her that same evening.

She had felt like skipping devotions, but found herself unable to do so. To her surprise, it was easy for her to pray. She arose from her knees encouraged.

During the next few days we continued to pray for Patty. God used a sermon at church, a phone conversation, and an invitation to assist in a church program to help her regain her joy in the Lord.

One of the keys to Paul's prayers was that he could testify, "I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:8). This loving concern and yearning will motivate us to pray in sincerity and with faith.

In Israel's first battle, Moses sent Joshua to lead the army. Then he took Aaron and Hur and went up to the top of the hill to pray. Through the day, one fact became apparent. The winning side was not determined by the armed soldiers. It was determined by those who prayed.

Dear Jesus, help us to take seriously our responsibility to pray for each other.

"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to have all of you, to sift you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail" (Luke 22:31-32).